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The Dos and Don'ts of Shipping Your Car Across the Country
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Contributor
24 Jul 2025
When you’re relocating to a different state, gifting a car to a family member, or managing a long-distance vehicle sale, auto transport services offer an efficient and safe solution. Driving your vehicle across hundreds or thousands of miles can add wear and tear, not to mention the time, stress, and logistical hurdles involved. That’s where professional car shipping services come in.
To ensure the process is seamless, it’s important to be aware of both the best practices and the pitfalls that can derail your experience. Whether it’s your first time shipping a car or you’ve done it before, this guide lays out the most critical dos and don’ts to make informed decisions from start to finish.
The Dos and Don’ts of Shipping Your Car Across the Country
Do Your Research on Transport Providers
Not all auto transport companies operate with the same standards. There are carriers who own and operate trucks, brokers who arrange shipments through third parties, and hybrid services that do a bit of both. It’s vital to understand who you’re hiring and how they work.
Spend time reading customer reviews on independent platforms, confirming that the company is registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), and verifying that it has sufficient insurance coverage. A quality provider will walk you through the process clearly and provide written documentation of everything from estimated timelines to insurance coverage.
Don’t Let Price Be Your Only Guide
Price shopping is important, but it shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision. The folks at Direct Connect Auto Transport say that car shipping services should be evaluated based on their track record, professionalism, and reliability, not just on the dollar amount. Low-ball quotes often indicate poor service quality, limited insurance, or unreliable subcontractors.
Look for transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and weigh the offer against their customer service record, transit time, and available transport options.
Do Choose the Right Shipping Method
There are generally two types of auto transport: open and enclosed. Open carriers are more common and budget-friendly but leave vehicles exposed to road debris, dust, and weather. They’re perfectly acceptable for most daily-use vehicles.
Enclosed carriers, while more expensive, offer protection from external elements and are recommended for luxury, classic, or specialty vehicles. Choosing the appropriate transport method based on your car’s value and your comfort level with potential exposure ensures peace of mind throughout the journey.
Don’t Skip Pre-Shipping Preparations
A clean and empty vehicle is easier to inspect and safer to transport. Wash the car thoroughly so you or the transporter can clearly identify any existing scratches, dings, or imperfections. Take high-resolution photos from all sides and document the condition in writing.
Remove any personal items, including electronics, documents, toll tags, or custom add-ons. These are not covered by the carrier’s insurance and can cause issues during transport. Ensure the gas tank is no more than a quarter full to reduce weight and minimize risk.
Understand the Insurance Policy
Every reputable transport company should carry liability and cargo insurance. But the specifics of what is covered can vary widely. Some providers only cover damage from accidents during loading or unloading, not environmental effects or theft during stops.
Ask for a copy of the insurance certificate and clarify if you need supplemental coverage. For high-value cars, it’s often wise to consider extra protection through your personal insurance or a third-party provider.
Don’t Ignore Timing and Seasonal Considerations
Auto shipping is subject to delays from traffic, weather, and regional events. Scheduling in advance, at least 2 to 3 weeks ahead, is key to securing the best rates and avoiding last-minute stress. Keep in mind that demand surges during summer, holidays, and snowbird seasons can lead to higher prices and longer waits.
If you live in a region prone to winter storms, that can further complicate timing and delivery access. Planning your shipment during milder conditions can help ensure a smoother and safer trip for your vehicle.
Do Review Pickup and Delivery Logistics
While many auto transport companies advertise “door-to-door” service, the reality can be more nuanced depending on your specific location and vehicle access. Residential areas with narrow streets, low-hanging trees, gated communities, or HOA restrictions can make it physically impossible for large transport trucks to reach your doorstep. Carriers will typically coordinate with you to select an alternative location, often a nearby shopping center, public parking lot, or large, open commercial space, where the pickup or drop-off can safely occur.
This makes it critical to clarify logistics with your transport provider well before the scheduled date. Ask about the size of the transport vehicle and whether your home or destination address poses any access challenges. Confirm the type of equipment they use (e.g., single-level trailer, multi-level hauler, enclosed or open transport), as this may influence where and how the pickup and delivery are carried out. For urban or remote locations, it’s wise to identify multiple backup sites just in case last-minute adjustments are needed.
Don’t Forget the Post-Delivery Inspection
After the long journey your vehicle has made, it’s tempting to breathe a sigh of relief and quickly sign off on the paperwork. But rushing through the final handoff can lead to missed issues that could become your responsibility if not addressed immediately. The post-delivery inspection is just as important as the pre-shipping checklist, and skipping or glossing over it can cost you both time and money later.
Take the time to conduct a thorough walkaround of the vehicle, ideally in daylight or a well-lit area. Compare the car’s current condition to your pre-transport photos and notes. Check all visible panels for scratches, dents, paint chips, and signs of impact or handling damage. Don’t forget to inspect the roof, undercarriage, bumpers, mirrors, and lights, spots that are often overlooked in a quick glance. If your vehicle was shipped in an enclosed carrier, make sure doors, windows, and seals were not damaged during loading and unloading.
Look inside the vehicle as well, if you left any factory-installed electronics or accessories. Although personal items are not covered by insurance and should not be left in the car during transport, it’s still wise to confirm that nothing inside has shifted or broken due to movement during transit.
The Dos and Don’ts of Shipping Your Car Across the Country
Shipping your car across the country is a major decision that involves both financial and logistical planning. But with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Doing your homework on transport providers, preparing your car properly, and maintaining clear communication can ensure a smooth process from pickup to delivery.
When in doubt, ask questions, read the fine print, and stay informed every step of the way. A little effort up front will go a long way in making sure your vehicle arrives safely and that your shipping experience is a positive one.
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Citiesabc is a digital transformation platform dedicated to empowering, guiding, and indexing cities worldwide. Established by a team of global industry leaders, academics, and experts, it offers innovative solutions, comprehensive lists, rankings, and connections for the world's top cities and their populations
